On March 9, 2023, NBCUniversal announced that they would be premiering a spin-off of the long-running
People's Choice Awards, honoring
country music's most popular artists, with the winners chosen entirely by the fans, though several honorary awards would also be awarded. On July 18, 2023, it was announced that country music legend,
Toby Keith, would receive the inaugural Country Icon Award, the award was presented to him by fellow Oklahoman,
Blake Shelton. The nominations were announced on August 16, 2023 with
Morgan Wallen leading with eleven, followed by
Luke Combs with eight.
Lainey Wilson was the most nominated female artist with seven nods.
Wynonna Judd, was honored with the Country Champion Award.
Toby Keith received the Country Icon Award. On September 8, 2023, it was announced that country music legend,
Wynonna Judd, would receive the inaugural Country Champion Award, the award celebrated her decades-long career and efforts around philanthropy and activism. During the ceremony there were live performances by Blake Shelton, Carly Pearce, Dan + Shay, HARDY, Jelly Roll, Kane Brown, Kelsea Ballerini, Little Big Town and Wynonna. While receiving his Icon Award honor, Toby Keith performed for the first time since the end of his
cancer treatment. This was also one of Keith's last public appearances and before his death on February 5, 2024. == Winners and nominees ==